Beverly Hills Police Lt. Mark Rosen confirmed that the singer was pronounced dead at 3.55pm EST. He told reporters that there are "no obvious signs of criminal intent", adding that an investigation into the cause of death has begun.

Neil Portnow, president of The Recording Academy, said in a statement: "Whitney Houston was one of the world's greatest pop singers of all time who leaves behind a robust musical soundtrack spanning the past three decades.

"Her powerful voice graced many memorable and award-winning songs. A light has been dimmed in our music community today, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, fans and all who have been touched by her beautiful voice."

Her official website now directs users to a tribute page (seen above), on which it simply states: "In loving memory".

A message from Sony Music posted on Houston's official website read: "Whitney Houston was an icon and a once-in-a-lifetime talent who inspired a generation of singers and brought joy to millions of fans around the world. She had a voice of unmatched beauty and power that changed music forever, and she leaves behind an indelible legacy of timeless songs that will never be forgotten.

"She also was an important member of the Sony Music family who spent her storied recording career with Arista Records. She will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to her daughter and her entire family."

The New Jersey-born singer, who had battled with drug and alcohol addiction, ended her 14-year marriage to singer Bobby Brown in 2006.

"I am deeply saddened at the passing of my ex-wife, Whitney Houston," Brown said in a statement to People. "At this time, we ask for privacy, especially for my daughter, Bobbi Kristina. I appreciate all of the condolences that have been directed towards my family and I at this most difficult time."

Aretha Franklin, godmother to the late star, said in a short statement: "I just can't talk about it now. It's so stunning and unbelievable. I couldn't believe what I was reading coming across the TV screen."

Tracks from her back catalog are already making their way up download charts around the world, with her version of 'I Will Always Love You' currently at number three in the US iTunes chart. Meanwhile, the UK's Official Charts Company said that it "understands that sales are already surging".

Houston, who starred alongside Kevin Costner in The Bodyguard, was regarded by her peers and fans as the voice of a generation. Reacting to the news, Mariah Carey tweeted: "Heartbroken and in tears over the shocking death of my friend, the incomparable Ms. Whitney Houston. My heartfelt condolences to Whitney's family and to all her millions of fans throughout the world. She will never be forgotten as one of the greatest voices to ever grace the earth."